The Thai government has decided to reduce the period of visa-free stay for citizens of more than 90 countries, including Russia, from 60 to 30 days. This was announced on May 19 by the Minister of Tourism and Sports, Surasak Panjaroenvorakul.
Thus, the preferential 60-day visa-free period, which was in effect from April 2024, is canceled. For all countries that were previously covered by this program, the standard 30-day period is returned. The decision has already been approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
The authorities explain the move by combating illegal employment of foreigners who abused the long-term visa-free regime. This problem was recognized by both the Thai Foreign Ministry and the Association of Travel Agents of the country.
Each country will now be reviewed separately by the Thai Visa Committee. He will determine which type of visa is most suitable based on security and economic considerations. Specific dates for the changes to take effect have not yet been announced.
Russian diplomats reported that they had not yet received an official notification from the Thai authorities.
Source: Forbes Russia
